Horticulturists in Feasterville, PA
What is a Pennsylvania Certified Horticulturist (PCH)?
A Pennsylvania Certified Horticulturist (PCH) is a horticultural expert who has successfully completed a comprehensive study program and examination which tests his/her knowledge of plant biology and maintenance, landscape design and garden center management. A PCH must maintain certification through a program of continuing education credits to ensure his/her ongoing knowledge and expertise as a professional in the horticultural industry.
The Pennsylvania Certified Horticulturist (PCH) program was started in 1971 as the Pennsylvania Accredited Nurseryman (PAN) program. It was started to recognize professionalism within the industry. In the 90’s the program was expanded to include non-members and the name of the program was changed to Pennsylvania Certified Horticulturist. Everyone who earns this designation must pass an exam evidencing their technical knowledge of horticulture. The exam covers a thorough understanding of plants, their attributes, functions, soils, insects, diseases, pruning, fertilizing, pest control, principles of design and installation, and understanding of retail operations. The exam requires a score of 80% in each of four sections before the candidate earns the PCH designation. To maintain the designation individuals must re-certify every two years by earning continuing education credits (24 CEUs) to support their knowledge and dedication to professionalism. There are only 215 active PCH’s, our PCH also obtained an Associate of Science degree from Temple University in Horticulture.
At the 2017 PA Green Industry Forum, Member & Recognition Event, PLNA recognized the first group of PCH Emeritus Members. Seventeen individuals were recognized for their dedication and ability to maintain the Pennsylvania Certified Horticulturist (PCH) program recertification requirements for 25+ years. Today individuals have the option to elect Emeritus Status at 25 years when they have maintained their PCH designation in good standing for 25 years. There are only 26 active PCH’s Emeritus Members (25-39 years), our PCH Emeritus Member also obtained a Bachelor of Science degree from Temple University in Horticulture.
We feel that these valued designations allow our customers to shop with confidence knowing that our highly trained staff can provide you with the most accurate and up to date information.
How our horticulturalists help you:
- Selecting garden appropriate plants for your specific locations and introducing you to all the new varieties of annuals, perennials, trees and shrubs, roses & vines while providing you with valuable information on their care.
- Identifying insects, diseases, and weeds, providing appropriate solutions for their control.
- Landscape designs ideas, as well as solutions for various landscape site concerns.
- Lawn care instruction on installation, maintenance &restoration.